More than 50 people came out to City Hall on Tuesday to see the Venezuelan flag be raised in honor of their Independence Day.

The Venezuelan community, along with their family and friends, witnessed their flag being hoisted to fly alongside the American flag. Smiles, pride and joy were on their faces as they saw this historic moment happening before their eyes.

Fernando Torres, president of Casa de Venezuela Philadelphia, the city’s Venezuelan community organization, said the ceremony is a well-deserved acknowledgement of the work Venezuelan immigrants have given to the city of Philadelphia throughout its history.

“We’re deeply honored for this historic tribute to Venezuelan citizens who have given so much to the city,” he said. “It’s also a tribute to the civic and cultural work that, since 2004, Casa de Venezuela Philadelphia has done. We’re very grateful to the local administration for this meaningful gesture.”

Speakers from Casa de Venezuela Philadelphia were present and expressed their gratitude.Hani White, Deputy Director of Immigrant Affairs for the City of Philadelphia, attended the event in representation of local government, and spoke a few words in behalf of Mayor Jim Kenney.